How To Fix Your Screen is Being Observed” on Mac

If you’re encountering the message “your screen is being observed” on your Mac, it can be alarming and disruptive to your work. This guide will help you identify the cause and take steps to resolve the issue, ensuring your privacy and security.

Understanding the Message

The “your screen is being observed” message typically indicates that another user or application has access to your screen. This could be due to a variety of reasons, including remote desktop connections, screen sharing, or malicious software.

Step 1: Check for Authorized Screen Sharing

Ensure no one has authorized access to your screen.

  • Go to System Preferences > Sharing.
  • Look for Screen Sharing and see if it is enabled.
  • If it is, check the list of users who have access and remove any unauthorized users.
  • Disable Screen Sharing if you do not need it.

Step 2: Disable Remote Management

Disable any remote management tools.

  • Go to System Preferences > Sharing.
  • Check if Remote Management is enabled.
  • If it is, disable it unless you need it for legitimate purposes.

Step 3: Review System Preferences for Other Sharing Options

Check other sharing options that might be enabled.

  • Go through all the sharing options in System Preferences > Sharing.
  • Disable any options that you do not use, such as Remote Apple Events or Xsan.

Step 4: Inspect Your Applications

Check if any applications are accessing your screen.

  • Open Activity Monitor (found in Applications > Utilities).
  • Look for any suspicious processes or applications that might be accessing your screen.
  • If you find any, quit or force quit the application.
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Step 5: Run a Virus Scan

Ensure your Mac is free from malware.

  • Use an antivirus software (such as Malwarebytes or Norton) to scan your Mac for any malware.
  • Follow the software’s instructions to remove any detected threats.

Step 6: Check for Background Processes

Identify and stop any background processes that might be observing your screen.

  • Open Terminal (found in Applications > Utilities).
  • Type ps -ef | grep screen and press Enter to list processes related to screen sharing.
  • If you find any suspicious processes, use the kill command to stop them.

Step 7: Reset NVRAM and SMC

Reset NVRAM and SMC to clear any corrupted settings.

  • Shut down your Mac.
  • Turn it back on and immediately hold down Command + Option + P + R until you hear the boot chime for the second time.
  • Release the keys and let your Mac boot normally.
  • For SMC reset, the process varies depending on your Mac model; refer to Apple’s support page for specific instructions.

Step 8: Update Your Operating System

Ensure your macOS is up to date.

  • Go to System Preferences > Software Update.
  • Install any available updates to ensure you have the latest security patches.

Step 9: Monitor Your Mac’s Activity

Regularly monitor your Mac’s activity to prevent future issues.

  • Use Activity Monitor to keep an eye on system resources and identify any unusual activity.
  • Set up regular virus scans and system checks to maintain your Mac’s security.

By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue causing the “your screen is being observed” message on your Mac, ensuring your privacy and security are maintained.

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